Reading
SAA Notes
This oracle continues the series on the nations round about ancient Israel. Moab was a cousin nation, of a similar racial and religious (originally) background. Moab opposed Moses and Israel from the time of Exodus. They supported the very cruel treatment given to Israel by her opponents. God does see and take note and act! Wait patiently is the New Testament corollary. (Revelation 13:10, 14:12)
SJA Notes
* Gracious Lord, please show us Your word clear and bright today.
“We have heard of the pride of Moab – how proud he is! – of his arrogance, his pride, and his insolence; in his idle boasting he is not right.”
We see here that the words of Proverbs 16 are true not only for individuals, but for countries (and institutions, groups, entities, governments and shadowy cabals).
“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”
We read Peter and James both telling us that God opposes the proud and gives grace and blessing to the humble (1 Peter 5, James 4).
This is good for us to be exhorted in as we in our own personal walk with the Lord.
It is also very good for us to wrestle with this in our groupings.
Our earthly families. Our church family. The organisations we might work for. Our politics – Our countries themselves!
Peter’s advice, God’s wisdom, is very apt,
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you,”
For God’s people, the final fulfillment of “the proper time” will be found in glory!
* Merciful Father,
We praise You for Your steadfast love and faithfulness!
Please mark us as a humble people Lord God, both in our own walk with You and together as Your people the flock.
This we pray.
Amen.